Nothing, however, sharpens introspection like confronting one's mortality. Health complications forced me to confront the toll taken on my body and spirit. Though outwardly, I might appear invincible, especially in the pixelated reality of social media, inwardly, battles rage on.

In a society that often values passive compliance and the ease of following trends, stepping outside the norm to hone self-preservation skills is an act of non-conformity. This physical, mental and spiritual journey not only prepares one to confront potential threats but also embodies Ralph Waldo Emerson's philosophy on the necessity of self-reliance in modern times.

Our fleeting existence is akin to an irretrievable treasure, its value magnified by its impermanence. We often forget this priceless asset, getting caught up in the trappings of the mundane, overlooking the urgency of our ticking clocks.

To clarify, it isn't science and technology that I contest, but rather the paradigm that governs their application and, indeed, our broader societal functioning.

In the dawn of 2020, as the world ushered in a new decade, I found myself seeking sanctuary on the rugged coastlines of the Isle of Man. My spirit was worn, having traversed the ravages of years-long depression. I arrived in this new land, cradled in the Irish Sea, with an earnest desire to heal, and hope as my compass.